North Korea is on the verge of fielding its first airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, according to satellite imagery analyzed by 38 North on March 4.
Recent images taken on March 3, 2025, confirm that a modified Il-76 transport aircraft—previously observed undergoing conversion—now features a mounted radar system.
A Major Leap for North Korea
Unlike the outdated aircraft that make up much of North Korea’s air fleet, the Il-76-based AEW&C aircraft will provide Pyongyang with real-time airspace monitoring, allowing its military to detect and track enemy aircraft with greater accuracy.
“This is like giving North Korea’s Air Force a pair of eyes,” said Jeong Chan-wook, a defense analyst with the Korea Defense Study Forum. “It allows them to detect, track, and relay military movements to command centers in real-time.”
North Korea’s air force has long relied on aging Soviet-era MiG fighters, many of which are decades behind the advanced aircraft operated by South Korea, the U.S., and Japan.
The introduction of an AEW&C aircraft could help close the intelligence gap—though experts note that one aircraft alone won’t be enough for round-the-clock surveillance.
Chinese Influence?
The radar system mounted on the Il-76 bears distinct markings that closely resemble Chinese AEW&C designs, though it remains unclear if Beijing directly supplied the technology.
Earlier reports in July 2024 suggested that North Korea was modifying an Il-76 at Sunan Airport in Pyongyang, with visible structural changes indicating it was being adapted for a radar system. By October 2024, ground-level images surfaced confirming the aircraft was undergoing a full-scale conversion.
Unlike most military aircraft in North Korea’s inventory, the Il-76 is not part of its air force. Instead, it belongs to Air Koryo, the state airline.
How It Compares to South Korea
South Korea currently operates four AEW&C aircraft and has plans to acquire four more. Experts estimate North Korea would need at least four similar aircraft to maintain continuous air surveillance over the Korean Peninsula.
Despite the technological leap, analysts say Pyongyang’s new airborne radar system will likely struggle against South Korea’s superior military infrastructure, including stealth aircraft and electronic warfare systems.
North Korea has yet to publicly confirm the existence of its AEW&C project.
